The Kenyan government is set to update the East African Community (EAC) region on its travel policies after a six-month grace period. Kenyan officials revealed that during this period, the country has exempted six partner states – Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda – from applying and paying for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The move aims to allow Kenya the necessary time to enhance its systems.
Mr. Nixon Ng’ang’a, the Director of Communications at the Interior Affairs ministry, stated that EAC nationals would be issued the eTA for free during this grace period. He highlighted ongoing efforts to develop a system recognizing various EAC travel documents, addressing non-compliance issues and aligning regional interests with international travel protocols.
The Director of Communications did not specify the countries currently non-compliant. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a UN specialized agency, coordinates international air navigation principles and techniques. The ministry is working towards ICAO compliance during the six-month period.
The exemption for EAC citizens was confirmed by Mr. Evelyn Cheluget, Director General of the Kenya State Department of Immigration and Citizen Services. However, the implementation of the eTA system, replacing the Visa system, began on January 1 for all foreigners except those exempted.
Concerns arose among Ugandans, especially frequent travelers to Kenya, regarding discrepancies in the electronic travel authorization states issued by the Kenyan Immigration Directorate. Travellers from EAC states are required to apply for the eTA, excluding citizens of partner states for the initial six months.
The eTA application, to be submitted online at least three days before travel, incurs a fee of $30 (approximately Shs114,000) per visitor. While the exemption for EAC citizens is in effect, some Ugandans in Kenya expressed uncertainty about potential requirements after the six-month period.
Mr. William Kidima, a leader of Ugandan traders in Mombasa, mentioned that Kenyan authorities communicated the freedom to operate freely in Kenya for six months without interference. However, details regarding post-exemption requirements remain unclear.
Currently, travellers from EAC member states only need to present valid national identity cards or passports at entry ports to access Kenya.
